The renewal of a beautiful riverside walk in south Sligo is being lauded as an example of cooperation between the community and local authority. The Coolaney Riverside Walk, first established in the late 1980’s, has been successfully improved over the years. But now, thanks to a €20,000 grant provided through the Outdoor Infrastracture Recreation Scheme, as well as local fundraising, the community in Coolaney will shortly be able to enjoy the latest walk improvements, which include a new boardwalk overlooking the Owenmore River and a tarmacadam footpath.
Sligo County Council contractors have been busy putting the finishing stages to the project, which will be completed before the end of the year. This means that the walk will be enjoyed by locals over the Christmas season, a welcome distraction from the many challenges and restrictions that have been placed on our movements during the pandemic.
The works have taken place in recent months after the community approached Sligo County Council with a view to improving some of the amenities along the walk. This included the replacement of the existing timber boardwalk, which overlooks the Owenmore River and which had been built on bog land. This boardwalk had been prone to rising damp which ultimately led to the rotting of the timber structure, making it unsafe for people to traverse.
A successful application was made to the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, and this led to the construction of a new boardwalk composed of recycled plastic, which will provide a robust and long-lasting solution. This, along with other improvements to the walk, will ensure that the Coolaney River Walk will become a most enjoyable village-centred amenity for all to avail of, including the visitors who take part in the annual Sligo Camino, which takes in Coolaney village.
The walks investment in Coolaney and across the county was welcomed by Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Cllr. Dara Mulvey.
“The Department of Rural and Community Development has confirmed funding for a range of projects in County Sligo, and this is a great boost for the many voluntary groups and local committees who are working tirelessly to enhance their communities.
At this very challenging time for all our citizens, the development of our outdoor recreational facilities was never more important or more welcome. I would like to commend Sligo County Council’s Director of Services Dorothy Clarke and the staff of Sligo County Council and Leader for their professionalism in working with the various communities to prepare and submit the grant applications, and today’s announcement is due reward for their efforts.”
